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This week (and last) city councils and township boards welcomed new faces.  As is with any election, you will see familiar faces stepping down. We have a couple of Mayors that need recognizing. Keith Carlson has served on the city council and as mayor of Lindstrom for nearly 60 years. He looks young for serving that long doesn't he? Obviously I am joking about the years, but Keith has served the city of Lindstrom for a very long time.  I have known Keith for as long as I can remember, and he is a great person. You may not agree with some of his political decisions, but show me a politician that everyone loves.  Keith has been a business owner, a chamber director, and has sat on about a thousand other committees and boards.  Thank you Keith for your dedication to our community.  Congratulations on your retirement.

Dan Vogel is stepping down as the Mayor of Shafer. Dan has not served quite as long as Keith, but has had great impact on the City of Shafer. I have known Dan for quite a while now, and he is a salt of the earth person.  He continually put the citizens of Shafer first.  He will be missed by all.  I am told he is exploring a move to the great up north, good luck Dan!

Speaking of leaving posts, we have yet another fixture in our community that is moving on.  Wendy Redland who has served ast he Chisago Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Director  the last four years is stepping away to pursue her dream.  I sat on the board of directors and watched as Wendy grew from a (sorry Wendy) meek, quiet person, to a vocal community champion who formed countless friendships over those years.  Wendy will do great with whatever she decides to do.  It has been a pleasure to work with her.

With Wendy departing, that opens a spot for director.  I am happy to say the Chamber has chosen  Katie Malchow as her successor.  Katie has been in the area for years and I have seen her in action in many community related events including the ABC initiative.  Katie is a wonderful person, outgoing and full of energy.  She will do great as the new director.  If you are out and about near the Chamber, stop in and say hi to Katie.

Mark your calendars for January 19. That is Hockey Day Minnesota.  Many cities and towns across the state will host hockey games they way they originated - outside in the elements.  I grew up watching hockey games at the rink that used to be by the cemetery in Lindstrom.  If my memory is correct, I believe the high school team may have played there as well.  On January 19 Shafer will host a Hockey Day Minnesota event at their public rink.  The rink is in the Shafer Meadows Park off of County Road 37 just north of town.  There will be all day hockey and I am told the news crews will also be there filming.  There will be stands set up as well as refreshments and I believe a warming house.  We will see you there!

If you own a business or work at a local business, then you should really consider attending the 2019 Home Show.  Kind of a sentimental show, it will be the last show in the high school cafeteria, hallways and new gym.  Next year the show will be held in the shiny new community center which is being constructed as we speak.  The home show is an excellent platform for businesses to connect with the public on a large scale, hands on atmosphere.  Where else can you meet a couple thousand local residents who could be potential customers?  Don't miss your chance this year, because those who participate in this year's show will have preferential treatment and location choices for next year's show.  Contact Community Ed at 651-213-2603 or email them at [email protected] to register. The show runs March 2 & 3.

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